Have you ever stayed up late, felt exhausted the next day, and reached for an energy drink to get through classes or work? It may feel like a quick fix, but this habit can become a cycle.
A recent review examined research on energy drinks and sleep in teenagers. The strongest evidence linked energy drink use with shorter or poorer sleep. Caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep, even when it is consumed several hours before bedtime.
The relationship may go both ways. When teenagers do not get enough sleep, they may feel more tired during the day and be more likely to use energy drinks. But caffeine can then make it harder to get the rest they need.
Sleep loss may also affect mood, attention, and learning. Some studies suggest that teenagers who are sleep-deprived may find sugary foods more appealing. However, the review did not prove that energy drinks directly cause obesity or that stopping them alone will solve sleep problems.
What can you do? Notice when you drink caffeine and how it affects your sleep. Try to avoid energy drinks later in the day, keep a regular sleep schedule, and give yourself enough time to rest. If you often feel sleepy during the day, look at your overall sleep habits rather than relying only on caffeine.
The takeaway: Energy drinks may temporarily mask tiredness, but they cannot replace sleep. Taking care of your sleep is a better long-term way to support your energy, mood, and concentration.
Sourceļ¼Medscape
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/tired-teen-trap-energy-drinks-and-sleep-debt-2026a1001401?utm_source=chatgpt.com
